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Karen Anne Picknell

Karen Anne Picknell obituary, Loudon, NH

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Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium - Hanover Street

243 Hanover Street

Manchester, New Hampshire

Karen Picknell Obituary

Karen Anne (Blanchette) Picknell passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, November 28th, 2025, in the presence of loved ones, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Karen was born at Fort Devens, MA to George and Pauline Blanchette. Karen grew up on the west side of Manchester along the Merrimack River.

Karen was the Life Partner to Rachel Shannon. They lived in Loudon, NH for the past 11 years where they shared many happy memories and experiences.

Karen loved the outdoors, snowboarding, camping in her teardrop camper, reading and animals. Karen (Meme) especially loved spending time with her grandson. Meme was definitely the "fun one".

Everyone who spent time with Karen saw that she had a zest for life. Those who knew her well also knew she had a stubborn streak a mile wide and was an extremely strong and competent person. Her daughters know that the strength she had was shown to them in so many ways and has built them into the strong and independent women they are today.

Karen is survived by her Life Partner Rachel Shannon, her girls Kelsey Picknell and Hillary Knight, son-in-law James Knight and grandson Oliver, her step-sons Kevin and Daniel Picknell, the father of her children James Picknell, her siblings Janet Hodges, Steven Blanchette, Jodi Barclay, Randy Blanchette and multiple nieces and nephews.

No formal services will be held at this time but the family will plan a Celebration of Life next spring.

Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to Payson Center for Cancer Care or the Breast Cancer Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Union Leader on Dec. 6, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Picknell

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3 Entries

Jodi Barclay

Yesterday

I must say, I did cry (despise admitting that!). My heart sank upon hearing the news (despise admitting that as well!). I lost a childhood companion; a constant, who was very dear to me during our younger years - one, who's ways about her? guided me in becoming me - although not easy while growing up, thankful to her for that, wouldn't change a thing! Sadly, I did not lose a sister or friend, but I am truly thankful for her presence in my life. I pray she has finally found her peace.

Rachel

Yesterday

Just a couple of our adventures together. We always had fun and enjoyed our time together

Karen Shea

December 3, 2025

My sympathies to Karen's family. We played on the same soccer team many years ago and she was always a scrappy defender.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium - Hanover Street

243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH 03104

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